Bethena is a unique and captivating feminine given name of Hebrew origin. Derived from the Hebrew word "bet" which means "house," Bethena signifies "daughter of the house." This name has a rich historical background, being one of the names given to the daughters of King David in the Bible.
The name Bethena is not particularly common, but its rarity adds to its charm and allure. It has been used sparingly throughout history, with notable instances including Bethena Brown, an American abolitionist and suffragist who played a significant role in the women's rights movement during the 19th century.
Bethena is also associated with music due to its use as the title of a piano piece composed by Alexander Siloti in 1897. The piece, titled "Bethena, A Negro Love Song," is a beautiful and expressive melody that has become a staple in the classical repertoire.
In terms of pronunciation, Bethena is typically pronounced as /bɛˈθiːnə/, with the stress falling on the third syllable. It rhymes with words like "eden" or "Phebe."
Overall, Bethena is an uncommon yet intriguing feminine name with a strong historical and cultural foundation. Its Hebrew origins give it a distinctive character, while its musical association adds a touch of elegance and romance to this unique moniker.
The name Bethena has seen a fluctuating popularity over the years in the United States. With only 5 births each year between 1916 and 1936, it was quite uncommon during that period. However, there was a slight increase in popularity in the following decades, with 5 births each year from 1950 to 1956, followed by 6 births annually from 1964 to 1968.
Overall, Bethena has seen a total of 48 births across these years. Despite its ups and downs in popularity, it remains a unique and distinctive name choice.